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Message ANNUAL REPORTTO THE BOARD OF GOVERNORS
PRESIDENT’S ANNUAL REPORT TO THE BOARD OF GOVERNORSConvocation season marks the end of the student journey for so many at Algoma University as we send another graduating class into the world, work-ready and prepared to lead change for this generation, and the next. It also marks a time of renewal and regeneration for the University as we prepare to welcome a new cohort of scholars.It’s been a joy to join Chancellor Mario Turco, Board of Governors Chair Mike Moraca and other members of our Board of Governors, Senate, faculty and community to watch our graduands cross the stage and take their place in our alumni community. Throughout each ceremony, I’ve reflected on just how precious a university education is. In Canada, fewer than one-third of people have a university degree. Across the globe, that number is more like seven per cent. We know that the high-quality education our graduates have received at Algoma University is a ticket to building a better life. Great careers and the foundation to rise into leadership positions are within reach for each of our alumni.But Algoma University doesn’t just change the lives of our students. This special university prepares our students to change lives in the communities they touch. We prepare them to have an impact. In his essay “Compensation,” poet Ralph Waldo Emerson wrote, “It is one of the most beautiful compensations of this life that you cannot sincerely try to help another without helping yourself.”That incredible observation describes how the human experience is interconnected. And so, indeed, the only way to uplift yourself is to uplift others.Algoma University has not only taught students how to be excellent social workers, scientists or accountants. We have taught them not only how to be successful in the world, but how to change the world.Our excellent faculty members continue to ask students to learn about Anishinaabe ways of knowing, to make space for cross-cultural dialogue and to help decolonize the space around them, through expanded minds and thoughtful choices. That cultural fluency gives them not only a heart of service, but we believe deeply it makes them people who can lead, who can build the workplaces, businesses and communities of tomorrow.The spring not only marks a new beginning for our graduates, but also new beginnings for Algoma University, with a fresh budget, new academic and research programming and fresh opportunities being highlighted across our institution.Algoma University continues to be in a stable nancial position. Our new budget shows nancial strength, strategic investment, and forward thinking. We will spend the coming scal year investing in our students, our campuses and communities, and our faculty and sta.With the renewal that a new scal year brings, I have a fresh set of concrete deliverables, as President and Vice-chancellor of this institution. Thanks to a mandate from our Board of Governors, I’m happy to present this annual report by touching on those six categories. GOAL 1: Business sustainability: diversication and risk management » Through our External Relations teams, we have nalized the three-year External Community Relations and Engagement departmental framework, goals and strategy. » Implementation of the (Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada) IRCC’s new caps on international students is well underway, including the shift to an internal system through which Algoma University is working with the Government of Ontario to provide each future international student with a provincial attestation letter (PAL). » We announced the new, 500-bed Brampton student residence—a beautiful home-away-from-home that will give our students in Brampton an aordable, safe place to live, and will give them the opportunity Sault Ste. Marie students already have: the chance to be steeped in campus life, and benet from more of the wraparound supports oered by Student Life. This announcement showed that Algoma University is part of the solution to the housing crunch in the communities we support; and that was shown in spades when our External Aairs team was able to coordinate involvement of municipal, provincial and federal government ocials at our announcement event in May. At that time, we also announced that we’re on track with the Sault Ste. Marie Campus Master Plan, which means we can look forward to a similar announcement of expanded student housing on our Sault Ste. Marie campus in the near future. » Our International Aairs team worked with faculty across several academic departments to welcome international interns to campus to collaborate on cutting-edge research and innovation projects. Interns spent up to 120 days on campus, and included high-achieving students from Belgium, India, Colombia, South Korea, and South Africa, many of whom are funded by various Mitacs programs. Two of the Belgian interns investigated the neuroprotective properties of amyloid (a known marker of Alzheimer’s disease) on the brain during a viral infection, and were able to complete a thesis project during their time in Canada. I am pleased to report that seven of the interns and one Visiting Faculty member will be working on our Brampton campus with Dr. Ajmery Sultana, the rst time we have welcomed interns outside of the Sault Ste. Marie campus. » Also through our International Aairs team, we welcomed a group of ten students and one faculty member from Utrecht University in the Netherlands to campus for a week-long cultural exchange. The group was immersed in learning around Indigenous peoples, residential schools in Canada, the impacts of colonization globally, community-based arts, and Indigenous activism. The experience strengthened a partnership between Drs. Laura Wyper and Nancy Myko, who have been working collaboratively to cultivate a deeper appreciation for Indigenous perspectives and to empower students to become advocates for social justice on a global scale. » Through the Faculty of Business, Algoma University and the Registered Professional Accountants of Canada signed an agreement that gives Algoma U students pursuing an accounting specialization access to another professional designation. Not only are our grads on track to qualify as a Chartered Professional Accountant (CPA), but also as a Registered Professional Accountant (RPA). » Nine teams of students from Algoma University’s campuses in Brampton and Sault Ste. Marie as well as three teams from Lake Superior University and Sault College had their skills put to the test during the 18th annual Northern Ontario Business Case Competition (NOBCC). This year we had 42 students; 25 student volunteers and 25 judges participate in this event. » Through our Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences and Faculty of Cross-Cultural Studies, we have brought the popular Bachelor of Social Work program to Brampton, starting in fall 2024, and launched the new Master of Social Work on all campuses for fall 2024. » Through our Faculty of Science in the School of Computer Science and Technology, hiring is approved and underway to provide expertise in Data Science, Articial Intelligence, Cybersecurity and Information Technology. Programs under development include a Bachelor of Information Technology, specialization in Articial Intelligence (AI) and Data Science, a Bachelor of Arts in Economics and Data Analytics, and a Master of Science in Business Analytics. The co-op program integrates student interest with community needs and others provide hands-on research and practical technologies,
PRESIDENT’S ANNUAL REPORT TO THE BOARD OF GOVERNORSConvocation season marks the end of the student journey for so many at Algoma University as we send another graduating class into the world, work-ready and prepared to lead change for this generation, and the next. It also marks a time of renewal and regeneration for the University as we prepare to welcome a new cohort of scholars.It’s been a joy to join Chancellor Mario Turco, Board of Governors Chair Mike Moraca and other members of our Board of Governors, Senate, faculty and community to watch our graduands cross the stage and take their place in our alumni community. Throughout each ceremony, I’ve reflected on just how precious a university education is. In Canada, fewer than one-third of people have a university degree. Across the globe, that number is more like seven per cent. We know that the high-quality education our graduates have received at Algoma University is a ticket to building a better life. Great careers and the foundation to rise into leadership positions are within reach for each of our alumni.But Algoma University doesn’t just change the lives of our students. This special university prepares our students to change lives in the communities they touch. We prepare them to have an impact. In his essay “Compensation,” poet Ralph Waldo Emerson wrote, “It is one of the most beautiful compensations of this life that you cannot sincerely try to help another without helping yourself.”That incredible observation describes how the human experience is interconnected. And so, indeed, the only way to uplift yourself is to uplift others.Algoma University has not only taught students how to be excellent social workers, scientists or accountants. We have taught them not only how to be successful in the world, but how to change the world.Our excellent faculty members continue to ask students to learn about Anishinaabe ways of knowing, to make space for cross-cultural dialogue and to help decolonize the space around them, through expanded minds and thoughtful choices. That cultural fluency gives them not only a heart of service, but we believe deeply it makes them people who can lead, who can build the workplaces, businesses and communities of tomorrow.The spring not only marks a new beginning for our graduates, but also new beginnings for Algoma University, with a fresh budget, new academic and research programming and fresh opportunities being highlighted across our institution.Algoma University continues to be in a stable nancial position. Our new budget shows nancial strength, strategic investment, and forward thinking. We will spend the coming scal year investing in our students, our campuses and communities, and our faculty and sta.With the renewal that a new scal year brings, I have a fresh set of concrete deliverables, as President and Vice-chancellor of this institution. Thanks to a mandate from our Board of Governors, I’m happy to present this annual report by touching on those six categories. GOAL 1: Business sustainability: diversication and risk management » Through our External Relations teams, we have nalized the three-year External Community Relations and Engagement departmental framework, goals and strategy. » Implementation of the (Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada) IRCC’s new caps on international students is well underway, including the shift to an internal system through which Algoma University is working with the Government of Ontario to provide each future international student with a provincial attestation letter (PAL). » We announced the new, 500-bed Brampton student residence—a beautiful home-away-from-home that will give our students in Brampton an aordable, safe place to live, and will give them the opportunity Sault Ste. Marie students already have: the chance to be steeped in campus life, and benet from more of the wraparound supports oered by Student Life. This announcement showed that Algoma University is part of the solution to the housing crunch in the communities we support; and that was shown in spades when our External Aairs team was able to coordinate involvement of municipal, provincial and federal government ocials at our announcement event in May. At that time, we also announced that we’re on track with the Sault Ste. Marie Campus Master Plan, which means we can look forward to a similar announcement of expanded student housing on our Sault Ste. Marie campus in the near future. » Our International Aairs team worked with faculty across several academic departments to welcome international interns to campus to collaborate on cutting-edge research and innovation projects. Interns spent up to 120 days on campus, and included high-achieving students from Belgium, India, Colombia, South Korea, and South Africa, many of whom are funded by various Mitacs programs. Two of the Belgian interns investigated the neuroprotective properties of amyloid (a known marker of Alzheimer’s disease) on the brain during a viral infection, and were able to complete a thesis project during their time in Canada. I am pleased to report that seven of the interns and one Visiting Faculty member will be working on our Brampton campus with Dr. Ajmery Sultana, the rst time we have welcomed interns outside of the Sault Ste. Marie campus. » Also through our International Aairs team, we welcomed a group of ten students and one faculty member from Utrecht University in the Netherlands to campus for a week-long cultural exchange. The group was immersed in learning around Indigenous peoples, residential schools in Canada, the impacts of colonization globally, community-based arts, and Indigenous activism. The experience strengthened a partnership between Drs. Laura Wyper and Nancy Myko, who have been working collaboratively to cultivate a deeper appreciation for Indigenous perspectives and to empower students to become advocates for social justice on a global scale. » Through the Faculty of Business, Algoma University and the Registered Professional Accountants of Canada signed an agreement that gives Algoma U students pursuing an accounting specialization access to another professional designation. Not only are our grads on track to qualify as a Chartered Professional Accountant (CPA), but also as a Registered Professional Accountant (RPA). » Nine teams of students from Algoma University’s campuses in Brampton and Sault Ste. Marie as well as three teams from Lake Superior University and Sault College had their skills put to the test during the 18th annual Northern Ontario Business Case Competition (NOBCC). This year we had 42 students; 25 student volunteers and 25 judges participate in this event. » Through our Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences and Faculty of Cross-Cultural Studies, we have brought the popular Bachelor of Social Work program to Brampton, starting in fall 2024, and launched the new Master of Social Work on all campuses for fall 2024. » Through our Faculty of Science in the School of Computer Science and Technology, hiring is approved and underway to provide expertise in Data Science, Articial Intelligence, Cybersecurity and Information Technology. Programs under development include a Bachelor of Information Technology, specialization in Articial Intelligence (AI) and Data Science, a Bachelor of Arts in Economics and Data Analytics, and a Master of Science in Business Analytics. The co-op program integrates student interest with community needs and others provide hands-on research and practical technologies,
such as using virtual reality to train local crane operators at Algoma Steel. » In the Department of Biology and Environmental Science, several studies were funded by the Strategic Initiative Fund including eld-based studies that investigate water protection and climate change and oer opportunities for research assistants. » Through our Department of Psychology, the Master of Psychotherapy, beginning fall 2025, will connect graduate students with community partners such as Algoma Family Services and Sault Area Hospital. We’re also on track to launch a Master of Experimental Psychology in fall 2026.GOAL 2: Special Mission: responding to community needs » We are on track to imminently begin construction of Makwa Waakaa’igan, a global centre of excellence for Decolonization, Indigenization and cross-cultural learning. Makwa Waakaa’igan is a $43.3-million project to be built on our Sault Ste. Marie campus, founded through the leadership of the Children of Shingwauk Alumni Association (CSAA), a community of Residential School Survivors and their descendants. Makwa Waakaa’igan will serve as a centre of excellence for sharing global Indigenous practices; it will house the Shingwauk Residential Schools Centre (SRSC) archives and Indigenous teachings; it will integrate academic research, art, healing, and ceremony; and it will be the home of a new Mental Health and Addictions Research and Training Institute, established in partnership with the Northern Ontario School of Medicine University. » The Shingwauk Residential Schools Centre (SRSC) at Algoma University was honoured with the prestigious 2023 Ontario Museum Association (OMA) Award of Excellence in Exhibitions for the world-famous exhibit, Reclaiming Shingwauk Hall. Reclaiming Shingwauk Hall is the rst major, permanent Residential School Survivor-driven exhibition in a former Residential School building. It has transformed the hallways and former auditorium within Shingwauk Hall into an exhibition space. Reclaiming Shingwauk Hall presents the history of the Shingwauk Indian Industrial Residential Schools within the context of colonialism, truth-telling and healing. It’s a space built and curated by the Children of Shingwauk Alumni Association (CSAA), Residential School Survivors and First Nations. » Through the leadership of Mary Wabano-McKay, the outgoing Vice-President, Nyaagaaniid- Anishinaabe Initiatives, Equity and Student Success, as well as the EDI team, we have completed the Equity Diversity and Inclusion Strategy and Action Plan, and are now socializing and implementing that plan through all departments and faculties. » In partnership with Unity, we have founded Immersive: The Canadian Centre of Excellence for Immersive Technologies at Algoma University. » Our Recruitment team coordinated on-campus experiences and presentations promoting the Learner’s Early Access Program (LEAP) for over 700 Peel Region youth, predominantly from Black, Indigenous, and equity-deserving groups. We had graduation ceremonies for two cohorts of students over the past year, and we are expecting to welcome approximately 75 new students into the program in September 2024. » We announced that all LEAP grads who choose to return to Algoma University to study for their degree will be awarded the $6,000 LEAP Bursary. » Algoma University has coordinated sponsorship and cross-departmental participation in Pride events, bringing together the External Aairs team, Student Success and Wellbeing team, Algoma University Students Union (AUSU) and the Equity, Diversity and Inclusion (EDI) team to work together to celebrate Pride month. » Our International Aairs team partnered with Lakehead University to take 17 Indigenous students on an international exchange of Indigenous cultural knowledge in Belize. Students earned course credit for a Special Topics course on Mayan and Garifuna Ethnomedicine, Architecture, and Astronomy, and explored archeological sites such as Cahal Pech and Xunantunich. Dr. Andrew Judge designed the learning experience in partnership with the International Aairs Oce, with funding provided through Canada’s Global Skills Opportunity Fund. » Algoma University was among six Canadian universities awarded new funding through the prestigious 2024 Canadian Queen Elizabeth II Scholarship program (QES). This initiative, presented by the Rideau Hall Foundation (RHF) and Universities Canada, will allocate $1.6 million to support 133 students from these institutions, with the aim of nurturing future innovative leaders and community builders. Algoma University’s winning project, titled “Building global leaders: Community-based experiences to advance decolonization and cross-cultural education,” will oer students work-integrated learning opportunities related to health, education, and social and economic development. » Six Algoma University students travelled to India for a 15-day transformative international learning experience in which they earned credit for a course titled “Global Rise of India: Democracy, Politics, and Development.” Students had the opportunity to visit Chandigarh University and Miranda House, University of Delhi, where they engaged in academic discussions and attended guest lectures on topics including democracy and elections in India, innovations in the Indian legal system, the global rise of India, and political activism. They also had high-level meetings in New Delhi with ocials from the Canadian High Commission, World Bank, TATA Group, Shastri Indo-Canadian Institute, and Observer Research Foundation. » Through the Department of English and History, we launched Algoma University’s brand-new online creative writing journal The Algomian. The journal is an initiative that gives emerging writers the chance to publish their poems, short stories, creative nonction sketches, and one-act plays. In time, The Algomian will grow to encompass more of the creative arts including cartoons, visual arts, music, book reviews and more. » Our School of Social Work has developed partnerships with Oshki-Pimache-O-Win: The Wenjack Education Institute located in Thunder Bay and the Omushkego Education and Payukotayno: James and Hudson Bay Family Services. Aligned with our Special Mission, students are travelling into communities to support Indigenous initiatives, and learn from Indigenous peoples and lifeways. » Within our School of Computer Science and Technology and the Department of Psychology, we’re fostering cross-campus research collaborations, including Strategic Initiative Funding-supported collaborative projects like a Virtual Care Navigator being developed by Dr. Teryn Bruni, Dr. Randy Lin, Dr. Nicola Shaw and Dr. Nirosha Murugan; and the Patient-Centric Health Care Using virtual reality by Dr. Randy Lin, Dr. Chantal Lemieux and Dr. Miguel Garcia-Ruiz. » Dr. William Dew and Dr. Christine Madliger have received funding for studying lampricide treatments on lake sturgeon and have been building relationships with the Garden River First Nation. A subsequent funding submission proposes to collaborate with Indigenous research assistants and knowledge keepers to better understand the importance of the water and land. Members show humility in acknowledging their western ways of empirical science and to harmonize this with Indigenous knowledge. » The External and Community Relations department coordinated sponsorship and cross-departmental participation in Black History Month, Pride, Heritage Sounds South Asian Music Festival, Chinese New Year and other community events aligned with Algoma’s Special Mission and EDI Strategy and Action Plan. GOAL 3: impact: developing future leaders to drive successful change » Algoma University released an updated Strategic Plan, which is a commitment not only to change the lives of its students but to have a meaningful impact on the communities the university serves, for generations to come. » Our Department of External Community Relations and Engagement coordinated cross-departmental representation from all campus communities at annual Chamber of Commerce / Board of Trade Business Excellence Award events where I was recognized as Brampton’s Business Person of the Year. In Timmins, the partnership between Algoma University and Mattagami First Nation was recognized through a nomination for the NOVA Award for eorts to deliver STEAM-based land camps designed to support Indigenous elementary and high school students in their transition to post-secondary education.
such as using virtual reality to train local crane operators at Algoma Steel. » In the Department of Biology and Environmental Science, several studies were funded by the Strategic Initiative Fund including eld-based studies that investigate water protection and climate change and oer opportunities for research assistants. » Through our Department of Psychology, the Master of Psychotherapy, beginning fall 2025, will connect graduate students with community partners such as Algoma Family Services and Sault Area Hospital. We’re also on track to launch a Master of Experimental Psychology in fall 2026.GOAL 2: Special Mission: responding to community needs » We are on track to imminently begin construction of Makwa Waakaa’igan, a global centre of excellence for Decolonization, Indigenization and cross-cultural learning. Makwa Waakaa’igan is a $43.3-million project to be built on our Sault Ste. Marie campus, founded through the leadership of the Children of Shingwauk Alumni Association (CSAA), a community of Residential School Survivors and their descendants. Makwa Waakaa’igan will serve as a centre of excellence for sharing global Indigenous practices; it will house the Shingwauk Residential Schools Centre (SRSC) archives and Indigenous teachings; it will integrate academic research, art, healing, and ceremony; and it will be the home of a new Mental Health and Addictions Research and Training Institute, established in partnership with the Northern Ontario School of Medicine University. » The Shingwauk Residential Schools Centre (SRSC) at Algoma University was honoured with the prestigious 2023 Ontario Museum Association (OMA) Award of Excellence in Exhibitions for the world-famous exhibit, Reclaiming Shingwauk Hall. Reclaiming Shingwauk Hall is the rst major, permanent Residential School Survivor-driven exhibition in a former Residential School building. It has transformed the hallways and former auditorium within Shingwauk Hall into an exhibition space. Reclaiming Shingwauk Hall presents the history of the Shingwauk Indian Industrial Residential Schools within the context of colonialism, truth-telling and healing. It’s a space built and curated by the Children of Shingwauk Alumni Association (CSAA), Residential School Survivors and First Nations. » Through the leadership of Mary Wabano-McKay, the outgoing Vice-President, Nyaagaaniid- Anishinaabe Initiatives, Equity and Student Success, as well as the EDI team, we have completed the Equity Diversity and Inclusion Strategy and Action Plan, and are now socializing and implementing that plan through all departments and faculties. » In partnership with Unity, we have founded Immersive: The Canadian Centre of Excellence for Immersive Technologies at Algoma University. » Our Recruitment team coordinated on-campus experiences and presentations promoting the Learner’s Early Access Program (LEAP) for over 700 Peel Region youth, predominantly from Black, Indigenous, and equity-deserving groups. We had graduation ceremonies for two cohorts of students over the past year, and we are expecting to welcome approximately 75 new students into the program in September 2024. » We announced that all LEAP grads who choose to return to Algoma University to study for their degree will be awarded the $6,000 LEAP Bursary. » Algoma University has coordinated sponsorship and cross-departmental participation in Pride events, bringing together the External Aairs team, Student Success and Wellbeing team, Algoma University Students Union (AUSU) and the Equity, Diversity and Inclusion (EDI) team to work together to celebrate Pride month. » Our International Aairs team partnered with Lakehead University to take 17 Indigenous students on an international exchange of Indigenous cultural knowledge in Belize. Students earned course credit for a Special Topics course on Mayan and Garifuna Ethnomedicine, Architecture, and Astronomy, and explored archeological sites such as Cahal Pech and Xunantunich. Dr. Andrew Judge designed the learning experience in partnership with the International Aairs Oce, with funding provided through Canada’s Global Skills Opportunity Fund. » Algoma University was among six Canadian universities awarded new funding through the prestigious 2024 Canadian Queen Elizabeth II Scholarship program (QES). This initiative, presented by the Rideau Hall Foundation (RHF) and Universities Canada, will allocate $1.6 million to support 133 students from these institutions, with the aim of nurturing future innovative leaders and community builders. Algoma University’s winning project, titled “Building global leaders: Community-based experiences to advance decolonization and cross-cultural education,” will oer students work-integrated learning opportunities related to health, education, and social and economic development. » Six Algoma University students travelled to India for a 15-day transformative international learning experience in which they earned credit for a course titled “Global Rise of India: Democracy, Politics, and Development.” Students had the opportunity to visit Chandigarh University and Miranda House, University of Delhi, where they engaged in academic discussions and attended guest lectures on topics including democracy and elections in India, innovations in the Indian legal system, the global rise of India, and political activism. They also had high-level meetings in New Delhi with ocials from the Canadian High Commission, World Bank, TATA Group, Shastri Indo-Canadian Institute, and Observer Research Foundation. » Through the Department of English and History, we launched Algoma University’s brand-new online creative writing journal The Algomian. The journal is an initiative that gives emerging writers the chance to publish their poems, short stories, creative nonction sketches, and one-act plays. In time, The Algomian will grow to encompass more of the creative arts including cartoons, visual arts, music, book reviews and more. » Our School of Social Work has developed partnerships with Oshki-Pimache-O-Win: The Wenjack Education Institute located in Thunder Bay and the Omushkego Education and Payukotayno: James and Hudson Bay Family Services. Aligned with our Special Mission, students are travelling into communities to support Indigenous initiatives, and learn from Indigenous peoples and lifeways. » Within our School of Computer Science and Technology and the Department of Psychology, we’re fostering cross-campus research collaborations, including Strategic Initiative Funding-supported collaborative projects like a Virtual Care Navigator being developed by Dr. Teryn Bruni, Dr. Randy Lin, Dr. Nicola Shaw and Dr. Nirosha Murugan; and the Patient-Centric Health Care Using virtual reality by Dr. Randy Lin, Dr. Chantal Lemieux and Dr. Miguel Garcia-Ruiz. » Dr. William Dew and Dr. Christine Madliger have received funding for studying lampricide treatments on lake sturgeon and have been building relationships with the Garden River First Nation. A subsequent funding submission proposes to collaborate with Indigenous research assistants and knowledge keepers to better understand the importance of the water and land. Members show humility in acknowledging their western ways of empirical science and to harmonize this with Indigenous knowledge. » The External and Community Relations department coordinated sponsorship and cross-departmental participation in Black History Month, Pride, Heritage Sounds South Asian Music Festival, Chinese New Year and other community events aligned with Algoma’s Special Mission and EDI Strategy and Action Plan. GOAL 3: impact: developing future leaders to drive successful change » Algoma University released an updated Strategic Plan, which is a commitment not only to change the lives of its students but to have a meaningful impact on the communities the university serves, for generations to come. » Our Department of External Community Relations and Engagement coordinated cross-departmental representation from all campus communities at annual Chamber of Commerce / Board of Trade Business Excellence Award events where I was recognized as Brampton’s Business Person of the Year. In Timmins, the partnership between Algoma University and Mattagami First Nation was recognized through a nomination for the NOVA Award for eorts to deliver STEAM-based land camps designed to support Indigenous elementary and high school students in their transition to post-secondary education.
» Over this scal year, we’ll invest $44.8 million in capital. By investing in construction, we give our students the facilities they need to excel. We give our communities new gathering places. We drive economic activity. And we create institutions that will serve generations. This year, we will begin construction on Makwa Waakaa’igan, spending $43.3 million over three years. We’ll also complete the new animal care facility and Containment Level 2 (CL2) lab on the Sault Ste. Marie campus, spending $6 million to enhance the research space for sciences; further renovations will continue to be nalized this year as we continue to work with the Faculty of Science to increase research space in the Convergence Centre building. In downtown Brampton, the University is expected to spend $88 million over ve years on increasing program and research space for Business and Economics, Computer Science and Technology, Community Economic and Social Development (CESD) and a new renovation on 145 Queen St. E, which will be a home for Social Work and Psychology programming and the Peel region Ontario Mental Health and Addictions Research and Training Institute. » This scal year, we’ll invest $70 million on employees—a $10-million increase over the 2023-24 scal year. Creating jobs means we can better serve students, faculty and researchers and continue the modernization of our operations; and by investing in creating good, full-time permanent jobs, we continue to impact lives and be a leader in the economic, social and cultural development of communities. We have budgeted for well over 100 additional faculty, sta and administration positions across all three campuses. » This scal year, our Investments in academic excellence and research will continue to be a priority—to meet the needs of the communities in which we’re rooted and their job markets, and also to meet the ambitions of our students. In addition to hiring more full-time faculty, we’ve budgeted for new academic departments, including a department of Computer Science and Mathematics, and Information Technology and Professionals Studies. We are thrilled that the popular and impactful bachelor of Social Work program will be extended to the far north into the James Bay and Hudson Bay area expanding access to education in the Mushkegowuk Territory. The school will also begin undergraduate programming in Brampton in the fall and Masters programming in both Timmins and SSM. These communities have an urgent need for professional social workers to work in hospitals, in outpatient counselling, in mental health and addictions care and in child welfare, among other areas of the eld. » We’ll spend $2 million on new program development, and invest in the Academic Strategic Initiatives fund as part of the University’s Responsibility-Centred Management Budget Model. Faculty members now have the unique opportunity to submit academic proposals (aligned with the Special Mission) that support program and research development and the academic journey/vision of the program area, its students or prospective future students, as well as innovative future programming that supports students, industry or community needs. With increasing funding for research and programs, we’re helping researchers and faculty members have an impact around the world and right in our own communities. » By budgeting a record $28.4 million for scholarships and bursaries, we will give more people access to a life-changing university education. » Our 2024-25 budget is based on a sustainable projected enrolment of 10,740 full-time equivalent students, and our enrolment plans focus heavily on domestic recruitment, including dedicated strategies to recruit First Nations, Métis and Inuit students. » Our Alumni and Advancement team secured $6,300,407 in grants and donations, secured 180 new donors, created 14 new awards, and hosted 17 events with 1,190 total attendees this year. GOAL 5: Business excellence » We have established the Business Transformation Oce, a department designed to modernize Algoma U’s processes and operations. » The School of Social Work at Algoma University hosted the second annual International Conference on Mental Health and Addictions. The hybrid conference facilitated a series of presentations and panel discussions featuring opening remarks from Michael Tibollo, Associate Minister of Mental Health and Addictions, highlighting the importance of facing mental health and addiction directly and collaboratively. » Through our Alumni and Advancement team, we completed three separate economic impact reports. These reports measure the positive economic impacts created by Algoma University on the communities around us and the province as a whole, and the benets the University generates in return for the investments made by its key stakeholder groups—students, taxpayers, and society. These key reports show that well over a half-billion dollars in Ontario’s economy is tied to Algoma University’s work. » Our Alumni and Advancement team issued Algoma University’s rst-ever Donor Impact Report—a vehicle to thank our donors and show our community the incredible impact of generosity. » Our Marketing and Communications team launched Algoma U’s new tri-campus marketing campaign, My Mission, which features student, faculty and sta voices and aims to show how Algoma University’s Special Mission inspires members of our community. » The marketing team is also wrapping up a wildly successful fall marketing campaign which delivered more than 16 million impressions and caused more than 1,800 potential future Thunderbirds to click on an Algoma University ad and follow through right to the Apply Now button. » From the Faculty of Business and Economics, Dr. Jody Rebek was selected as the recipient of the Algoma University Award for Excellence in Teaching this year across the University. » Dr. Mahbubul Alam and Dr. Nusrate Aziz of the Faculty of Business and Economics together with Dr. Isabel Molina of the Faculty of Science were awarded over $900,000 in federal funding through the Department of Innovation, Science, and Economic Development Canada. » In the Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences and Faculty of Cross-Cultural Studies, our social work students have been in the community working where they will have an impact—helping those in need. This year’s placements include: The Huron-Superior Catholic District School Board, AUSU, the Alzheimer’s Society - First Link, Nogdawindamin - Child Welfare and Alternative Care and Cultural Services, John Howard Society. Youth Wellness Hub, Shingwauk Residential Schools Centre, NORDIK Research Institute, Maamwesying, Algoma University School of Social Work, Children’s Aid Society, Sudbury: Health Sciences North, Indigenous Friendship Centres, Ken Brown Recovery Home. Algoma District School Board, Thrive Child Development Centre, the School of Social Work, thre Donald Doucet Youth Centre, Algoma Treatment and Remand Centre, Algoma Family Services, Victim Services of Algoma, Nogdawindamin - Neonatal Services, Sault Area Hospital and the Algoma Community Legal Clinic. » In the Faculty of Science, we’ve seen student numbers grow over the past ve years (23 per cent in Psychology, 38 per cent in Biology/Environmental Science, and 72 per cent in Computer Science). » The Faculty of Science has made the dicult decision to suspend the Graduate Certicate in Health Sciences in order to make modications in support of student success. » The Faculty of Science has added limitations on the number of students enrolled in the Graduate Certicate in Environmental Science until laboratory resources can be increased. : GOAL 4: Financial sustainability » On May 30, the Algoma University Board of Governors passed Algoma University’s 2024-25 budget which projects revenues to be $242.3 million and expenses total $233.8 million. This budget, built through conservative estimates, has a surplus at $8.5 million. It provides an opportunity to invest in people, programs, research and innovation in 2024-25. Fiscal stability itself is not the goal. The goal is to ensure the university is in a position to have a positive impact on the people and communities we care about.
» Over this scal year, we’ll invest $44.8 million in capital. By investing in construction, we give our students the facilities they need to excel. We give our communities new gathering places. We drive economic activity. And we create institutions that will serve generations. This year, we will begin construction on Makwa Waakaa’igan, spending $43.3 million over three years. We’ll also complete the new animal care facility and Containment Level 2 (CL2) lab on the Sault Ste. Marie campus, spending $6 million to enhance the research space for sciences; further renovations will continue to be nalized this year as we continue to work with the Faculty of Science to increase research space in the Convergence Centre building. In downtown Brampton, the University is expected to spend $88 million over ve years on increasing program and research space for Business and Economics, Computer Science and Technology, Community Economic and Social Development (CESD) and a new renovation on 145 Queen St. E, which will be a home for Social Work and Psychology programming and the Peel region Ontario Mental Health and Addictions Research and Training Institute. » This scal year, we’ll invest $70 million on employees—a $10-million increase over the 2023-24 scal year. Creating jobs means we can better serve students, faculty and researchers and continue the modernization of our operations; and by investing in creating good, full-time permanent jobs, we continue to impact lives and be a leader in the economic, social and cultural development of communities. We have budgeted for well over 100 additional faculty, sta and administration positions across all three campuses. » This scal year, our Investments in academic excellence and research will continue to be a priority—to meet the needs of the communities in which we’re rooted and their job markets, and also to meet the ambitions of our students. In addition to hiring more full-time faculty, we’ve budgeted for new academic departments, including a department of Computer Science and Mathematics, and Information Technology and Professionals Studies. We are thrilled that the popular and impactful bachelor of Social Work program will be extended to the far north into the James Bay and Hudson Bay area expanding access to education in the Mushkegowuk Territory. The school will also begin undergraduate programming in Brampton in the fall and Masters programming in both Timmins and SSM. These communities have an urgent need for professional social workers to work in hospitals, in outpatient counselling, in mental health and addictions care and in child welfare, among other areas of the eld. » We’ll spend $2 million on new program development, and invest in the Academic Strategic Initiatives fund as part of the University’s Responsibility-Centred Management Budget Model. Faculty members now have the unique opportunity to submit academic proposals (aligned with the Special Mission) that support program and research development and the academic journey/vision of the program area, its students or prospective future students, as well as innovative future programming that supports students, industry or community needs. With increasing funding for research and programs, we’re helping researchers and faculty members have an impact around the world and right in our own communities. » By budgeting a record $28.4 million for scholarships and bursaries, we will give more people access to a life-changing university education. » Our 2024-25 budget is based on a sustainable projected enrolment of 10,740 full-time equivalent students, and our enrolment plans focus heavily on domestic recruitment, including dedicated strategies to recruit First Nations, Métis and Inuit students. » Our Alumni and Advancement team secured $6,300,407 in grants and donations, secured 180 new donors, created 14 new awards, and hosted 17 events with 1,190 total attendees this year. GOAL 5: Business excellence » We have established the Business Transformation Oce, a department designed to modernize Algoma U’s processes and operations. » The School of Social Work at Algoma University hosted the second annual International Conference on Mental Health and Addictions. The hybrid conference facilitated a series of presentations and panel discussions featuring opening remarks from Michael Tibollo, Associate Minister of Mental Health and Addictions, highlighting the importance of facing mental health and addiction directly and collaboratively. » Through our Alumni and Advancement team, we completed three separate economic impact reports. These reports measure the positive economic impacts created by Algoma University on the communities around us and the province as a whole, and the benets the University generates in return for the investments made by its key stakeholder groups—students, taxpayers, and society. These key reports show that well over a half-billion dollars in Ontario’s economy is tied to Algoma University’s work. » Our Alumni and Advancement team issued Algoma University’s rst-ever Donor Impact Report—a vehicle to thank our donors and show our community the incredible impact of generosity. » Our Marketing and Communications team launched Algoma U’s new tri-campus marketing campaign, My Mission, which features student, faculty and sta voices and aims to show how Algoma University’s Special Mission inspires members of our community. » The marketing team is also wrapping up a wildly successful fall marketing campaign which delivered more than 16 million impressions and caused more than 1,800 potential future Thunderbirds to click on an Algoma University ad and follow through right to the Apply Now button. » From the Faculty of Business and Economics, Dr. Jody Rebek was selected as the recipient of the Algoma University Award for Excellence in Teaching this year across the University. » Dr. Mahbubul Alam and Dr. Nusrate Aziz of the Faculty of Business and Economics together with Dr. Isabel Molina of the Faculty of Science were awarded over $900,000 in federal funding through the Department of Innovation, Science, and Economic Development Canada. » In the Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences and Faculty of Cross-Cultural Studies, our social work students have been in the community working where they will have an impact—helping those in need. This year’s placements include: The Huron-Superior Catholic District School Board, AUSU, the Alzheimer’s Society - First Link, Nogdawindamin - Child Welfare and Alternative Care and Cultural Services, John Howard Society. Youth Wellness Hub, Shingwauk Residential Schools Centre, NORDIK Research Institute, Maamwesying, Algoma University School of Social Work, Children’s Aid Society, Sudbury: Health Sciences North, Indigenous Friendship Centres, Ken Brown Recovery Home. Algoma District School Board, Thrive Child Development Centre, the School of Social Work, thre Donald Doucet Youth Centre, Algoma Treatment and Remand Centre, Algoma Family Services, Victim Services of Algoma, Nogdawindamin - Neonatal Services, Sault Area Hospital and the Algoma Community Legal Clinic. » In the Faculty of Science, we’ve seen student numbers grow over the past ve years (23 per cent in Psychology, 38 per cent in Biology/Environmental Science, and 72 per cent in Computer Science). » The Faculty of Science has made the dicult decision to suspend the Graduate Certicate in Health Sciences in order to make modications in support of student success. » The Faculty of Science has added limitations on the number of students enrolled in the Graduate Certicate in Environmental Science until laboratory resources can be increased. : GOAL 4: Financial sustainability » On May 30, the Algoma University Board of Governors passed Algoma University’s 2024-25 budget which projects revenues to be $242.3 million and expenses total $233.8 million. This budget, built through conservative estimates, has a surplus at $8.5 million. It provides an opportunity to invest in people, programs, research and innovation in 2024-25. Fiscal stability itself is not the goal. The goal is to ensure the university is in a position to have a positive impact on the people and communities we care about.
» The University purchased Ellucian’s student administration system (SAS), Colleague, and is currently working to congure and test the system. The new SAS will replace an aging legacy system that is about two decades old. The new SAS, when implemented, will allow a rich set of student and faculty tools to support planning and decision making. Students will be able to access the new SAS from their computers and will benet from a wide range of self service supports, such as access to on-line enrollment (course adds, drops and section changes), advising tools, degree audit, course planner, access to fee information, streamlined communication tools to contact academic advisors, ability to request a variety of documents such as transcripts, conrmation of enrollment, tax information slips, and more. Faculty members will benet from improved services through the SAS such as on-line grade submission, integration with learning management systems, better advising support materials and process to assist students, the ability to provide on-line instructor consent for enrollment to students, course requisite checking, ensuring students have the appropriate foundation before registering in a course, and more. Colleague will ensure the University benets from a greater, more robust set of reporting tools, and access to data, to assist in and support decision making. » The University has also purchased the higher education scheduling software, Infosilem. This software allows the University to maximize space and seat utilization eciently, support faculty requirements for dedicated research time, integrate the dierent needs of in-person and on-line course delivery models, maximize student course choice, shortens the schedule creation time and more. This software has already dramatically improved our student and faculty timetables and space utilization. » Through the Marketing and Communications team, we’ve completed the request-for–proposals (RFP) process and started work with the successful proponent on a new mobile app and intranet for all students, faculty and sta to improve and streamline communications and operations, and help Algoma U tell its own story. » The Marketing and Communications team has also concluded an RFP and started work with the successful proponent on new exterior and interior signage and a new waynding system for the Brampton campus, with planned application to waynding on the Sault Ste. Marie campus. » Through the Experiential Learning and Career Services team, we’ve invested in Orbis, which is a comprehensive platform designed to support experiential learning and career education. It includes modules for job boards, student experience tracking, competency development, a co-curricular record tracking system, and more. Orbis will also collect employment data from graduating students upon graduation.GOAL 6: Decolonization » The Shingwauk Anishinaabe Students’ Association (SASA), the Anishinaabe Academic Resource Centre (AARC), and Makwa Waakaa’igan at Algoma University in partnership with the greater Anishinaabe community hosted the 18th Gathering At The Rapids Pow Wow, inviting community to attend and participate in Anishinaabe culture, including Pow Wow drumming, singing, and competition dancing while honouring the traditions of Anishinaabe ancestors. » Algoma University attended the Mawnjiding Wingushkeng inaugural Pow Wow for Peel Region youth to promote Algoma University pathway options and the Learner’s Early Access Program (LEAP). Mawnjiding Wingushkeng is the Peel District School Board’s new Centre for Indigenous Excellence and Land-Based Learning. » Through our Recruitment team, we have hired our rst First-Nations, Metis, and Inuit (FNMI) Enrolment Specialist in Brampton to support Indigenous student recruitment and pathways to post-secondary support for Indigenous youth in the Peel Region. » Our External Aairs team nalized sponsorship agreements with the City of Brampton to have Algoma University serve as lead sponsor of 2024 National Indigenous Peoples Day activities as well as the HeART Beats in Performing Arts Co-op and Internship Program for Black and Indigenous youth. » The international learning experience in Belize was designed as an Indigenous knowledge-centered study abroad. It provided an opportunity for transnational exchange of Indigenous knowledge between Maya and Garifuna people from Belize, Anishinaabe peoples from the Great Lakes, and a mixed-race Andean scholar from Bogota, Colombia. The entire experience was intended to create an inclusive and equitable environment in which all students explored relationships with the land, as well as diverse ways of knowing, learning, and being. » Minor changes have been made in the collective agreement allowing for diversity in membership of the Faculty Appointments Committee to hire Full-Time faculty; and more emphasis on, and recognition of, community engagement throughout the collective agreement. » This year, Algoma University launched Gabegendaadowin across all three communities in which our campuses are located. Gabegendaadowin translates to mutual respect, thoughtfulness, care, consideration and awareness for others. This innovative training program is an interactive learning opportunity that bridges the understanding between Indigenous and non-Indigenous communities. » Our Faculty of Business and Economics faculty members contributed to the 2024 Administrative Science Association of Canada professional development workshop on Indigenizing and decolonizing business schools 2024: Indigenizing and localizing curricula.As we mark an ending and a new beginning, may we all take a moment to remember the Seven Grandfather Teachings. The Seven Grandfather Teachings have been loaned by the Ojibway people to Algoma University in order to inspire and inform the University’s vision and values. The Seven Grandfather Teachings, as passed down by the late Dr. Edward Benton-Banai in The Mishomis Book, are: Nibwaakaawin | Wisdom Zaagidiwin | Love Mnaadendimowin | Respect Aakodewewin | Bravery Gwekwaadiziwin | Honesty Dibadendizawin | Humility Debwewin | TruthI want to extend my thanks to the Algoma University Board of Governors for the work each member has done in support of Algoma University and our students over the past year. Thanks to the eorts and compassion of our Board of Governors, Senate, faculty and sta, our newest alumni are ready to face the world as future change makers, they are work-ready and heading out to in-demand careers armed with critical thinking skills, diverse perspectives and cross-cultural understanding. Their foundation in decolonization will make them exactly the kind of leaders Ontario needs in the workplaces of today and tomorrow.Chi-Meegwetch, merci and thank you for all you do for Algoma U,Asima VezinaPresident and Vice-chancellor
» The University purchased Ellucian’s student administration system (SAS), Colleague, and is currently working to congure and test the system. The new SAS will replace an aging legacy system that is about two decades old. The new SAS, when implemented, will allow a rich set of student and faculty tools to support planning and decision making. Students will be able to access the new SAS from their computers and will benet from a wide range of self service supports, such as access to on-line enrollment (course adds, drops and section changes), advising tools, degree audit, course planner, access to fee information, streamlined communication tools to contact academic advisors, ability to request a variety of documents such as transcripts, conrmation of enrollment, tax information slips, and more. Faculty members will benet from improved services through the SAS such as on-line grade submission, integration with learning management systems, better advising support materials and process to assist students, the ability to provide on-line instructor consent for enrollment to students, course requisite checking, ensuring students have the appropriate foundation before registering in a course, and more. Colleague will ensure the University benets from a greater, more robust set of reporting tools, and access to data, to assist in and support decision making. » The University has also purchased the higher education scheduling software, Infosilem. This software allows the University to maximize space and seat utilization eciently, support faculty requirements for dedicated research time, integrate the dierent needs of in-person and on-line course delivery models, maximize student course choice, shortens the schedule creation time and more. This software has already dramatically improved our student and faculty timetables and space utilization. » Through the Marketing and Communications team, we’ve completed the request-for–proposals (RFP) process and started work with the successful proponent on a new mobile app and intranet for all students, faculty and sta to improve and streamline communications and operations, and help Algoma U tell its own story. » The Marketing and Communications team has also concluded an RFP and started work with the successful proponent on new exterior and interior signage and a new waynding system for the Brampton campus, with planned application to waynding on the Sault Ste. Marie campus. » Through the Experiential Learning and Career Services team, we’ve invested in Orbis, which is a comprehensive platform designed to support experiential learning and career education. It includes modules for job boards, student experience tracking, competency development, a co-curricular record tracking system, and more. Orbis will also collect employment data from graduating students upon graduation.GOAL 6: Decolonization » The Shingwauk Anishinaabe Students’ Association (SASA), the Anishinaabe Academic Resource Centre (AARC), and Makwa Waakaa’igan at Algoma University in partnership with the greater Anishinaabe community hosted the 18th Gathering At The Rapids Pow Wow, inviting community to attend and participate in Anishinaabe culture, including Pow Wow drumming, singing, and competition dancing while honouring the traditions of Anishinaabe ancestors. » Algoma University attended the Mawnjiding Wingushkeng inaugural Pow Wow for Peel Region youth to promote Algoma University pathway options and the Learner’s Early Access Program (LEAP). Mawnjiding Wingushkeng is the Peel District School Board’s new Centre for Indigenous Excellence and Land-Based Learning. » Through our Recruitment team, we have hired our rst First-Nations, Metis, and Inuit (FNMI) Enrolment Specialist in Brampton to support Indigenous student recruitment and pathways to post-secondary support for Indigenous youth in the Peel Region. » Our External Aairs team nalized sponsorship agreements with the City of Brampton to have Algoma University serve as lead sponsor of 2024 National Indigenous Peoples Day activities as well as the HeART Beats in Performing Arts Co-op and Internship Program for Black and Indigenous youth. » The international learning experience in Belize was designed as an Indigenous knowledge-centered study abroad. It provided an opportunity for transnational exchange of Indigenous knowledge between Maya and Garifuna people from Belize, Anishinaabe peoples from the Great Lakes, and a mixed-race Andean scholar from Bogota, Colombia. The entire experience was intended to create an inclusive and equitable environment in which all students explored relationships with the land, as well as diverse ways of knowing, learning, and being. » Minor changes have been made in the collective agreement allowing for diversity in membership of the Faculty Appointments Committee to hire Full-Time faculty; and more emphasis on, and recognition of, community engagement throughout the collective agreement. » This year, Algoma University launched Gabegendaadowin across all three communities in which our campuses are located. Gabegendaadowin translates to mutual respect, thoughtfulness, care, consideration and awareness for others. This innovative training program is an interactive learning opportunity that bridges the understanding between Indigenous and non-Indigenous communities. » Our Faculty of Business and Economics faculty members contributed to the 2024 Administrative Science Association of Canada professional development workshop on Indigenizing and decolonizing business schools 2024: Indigenizing and localizing curricula.As we mark an ending and a new beginning, may we all take a moment to remember the Seven Grandfather Teachings. The Seven Grandfather Teachings have been loaned by the Ojibway people to Algoma University in order to inspire and inform the University’s vision and values. The Seven Grandfather Teachings, as passed down by the late Dr. Edward Benton-Banai in The Mishomis Book, are: Nibwaakaawin | Wisdom Zaagidiwin | Love Mnaadendimowin | Respect Aakodewewin | Bravery Gwekwaadiziwin | Honesty Dibadendizawin | Humility Debwewin | TruthI want to extend my thanks to the Algoma University Board of Governors for the work each member has done in support of Algoma University and our students over the past year. Thanks to the eorts and compassion of our Board of Governors, Senate, faculty and sta, our newest alumni are ready to face the world as future change makers, they are work-ready and heading out to in-demand careers armed with critical thinking skills, diverse perspectives and cross-cultural understanding. Their foundation in decolonization will make them exactly the kind of leaders Ontario needs in the workplaces of today and tomorrow.Chi-Meegwetch, merci and thank you for all you do for Algoma U,Asima VezinaPresident and Vice-chancellor
Algoma UniversityBrampton | Sault Ste. Marie | Timminsalgomau.cainfo@algomau.ca1-888-Algoma-U